What is the risk of suffering from migraines after experiencing a car accident? Some people complain that their headaches worsen after the accident while others complain that their headaches are a new symptom which did not exist before the accident. Your migraine attacks may not occur until weeks after the accident.
There are several reasons as to why people experience post-traumatic headaches. A person can experience various types of headaches, and this article will explain the difference between the various types.
1. Post-Traumatic Headache
This type is due to a blow to the head or the neck. The headache can be cervicogenic, which
means it originates from the neck, or concussive, which means it originates from the brain or
head. These headaches normally do not appear until weeks after the accident.
2. Muscle Contraction or Spasm Headaches
This is the most common post-traumatic headache. This is caused by injury to the muscles in the upper back or neck. The soft tissue can tear, causing strain or spasms in the muscles. This usually results in a limited range of motion, and tenderness or swollenness to the affected area.
3. Whiplash Headaches
The head is forced backwards or forwards in a jerking motion which can strain soft tissue. These headaches normally focus at the base of the neck. Common symptoms include fatigue, dizziness, and neck stiffness. These headaches usually occur weeks after the accident.
4. Fractured Headache
A fractured skull or neck bone causes severe head pain. These also may indicate brain injury. Symptoms include nausea, slurred speech, or neck stiffness. Head and neck injuries are common in car accidents and headaches or migraines often accompany them. It is always wise to have a doctor checkup, especially if you are experiencing migraines post- accident.
Here at Novera we can work through your post-traumatic headaches and help you get back to a life without pain.
